Test of Time: Reliable Outdoor Apparel
XTRATUF 15-inch Legacy Boot
xtratuf.com
For nearly 20 years Publisher Marcus Weiner has been wearing these boots. He had this to say: “The XTRATUF Legacy boots are truly Alaska proven. Over the last two decades I have worn these boots while fishing, hunting, hiking and doing a significant amount of work in my yard. I’d conservatively estimate to have spent 1000 hours or more in these boots and they remain my first choice. The Chevron outsole provides exceptional grip on slippery boat decks and the boot has remained waterproof after tortuous testing. There’s good reason why these boots are among the most popular footwear in Alaska.”
Muck Boot Arctic Ice Tall Boot
muckbootcompany.com
These boots have been a household necessity for many years. We see plenty of cold weather in Alaska so whether you are icefishing, hunting, riding snowmachines or working outside, the Arctic Ice Tall by Muck is great for warmth, comfort and keeping your feet dry. The footbed in these Muck boots are substantially more comfortable than many comparable boots on the market.
Grundéns Raingear
grundens.com
We have tested dozens of different sets of rain gear from Grundéns over the last 20 years. From their heavy-duty sets like the Balder 302 Hooded Commercial Fishing Jacket and Bib made from a PVC-coated polyester/cotton blend that will keep you dry no matter the deluge, to the medium-weight sets more tailored to sportfishing like the Neptune 103 Commercial Fishing Anorak Pullover and Bib made from polyurethane-coated polyester that will allow you to move but keep you completely dry, there are lots of choices depending on your needs. The Tourney Jacket and Bib is a lightweight set that is made from polyurethane-coated polyester and is another set worth considering. Grundéns has moved into the GORE-TEX arena over the last few years and we’ve tested and endorse the Buoy X and Downrigger sets. Finally, there are options for kids. A set of Grundéns rain gear is a must-have in Alaska.
Simms Bulkley Insulated Jacket
simmsfishing.com
Alaska fishing, even in the summer but especially the spring and fall, is often cool to cold and wet. Finding the right insulating layer and rain shell is a necessity. The Simms Bulkley Insulated Jacket, named after BC’s Bulkley River of steelheading fame, combines PrimaLoft synthetic insulation with a GORE-TEX shell—perfect for those wet, cold, spring/fall days on the river. It has a great, adjustable three-point hood, two fly-box-compatible pockets, and two zippered, microfleece-lined hand-warming pockets. Another great feature is the Shingle Cuff design which prevents water intrusion up the sleeves when you reach into the water. It’s available in Riparian Camo or black. This jacket is the perfect match for late winter or mid-to-late fall angling on rivers like the Kenai or Naknek. We’ve got several seasons of use on this jacket and it is a winner.